Music has always been a part of the Kingdom of Callaway County Fair but this year it will be a main part of the entertainment lineup.
Rather than the usual derby in the large arena on Friday night, the 2012 fair instead will feature live music in the arena, opening with the Carissa Biele Band at 7 p.m. followed by main act LiveWire at 9 p.m. on Aug. 3.
Fair Board President Billy Spencer said event organizers decided to make the switch based on feedback from fair patrons.
"The public wants to hear good bands come back," Spencer said. "We were searching (for acts) and a couple people suggested LiveWire."
He described LiveWire - a group out of Joplin - as an "up and coming country band with a record coming out."
The 2012 Kingdom of Callaway County Fair, to be held July 30-Aug. 4, will feature live music on several nights, with Curreykorn performing on the Budweiser Stage at 8 p.m. on July 31; Harvey Mort's Band performing at 9 p.m. on Aug. 1; Misledd Classic Rock and Blues at 9 p.m. on Aug. 2; and Rickie Tanner performing at 9 p.m. on Aug. 4.
Music lovers also will be able to take in the annual fiddlers contest at 5 p.m. on Aug. 4.